Author's Note:

I'm still trying to figure out spacing, so I apologize if the timing of conversations isn't easy to understand.

I wanted to try writing a progressive Wizarding World, I don't think I've ever read a fic that had one. Tell me what you think, I'd appreciate any feedback.

Let's meet Artemis!

1966

"Sirius Orion Black the third! Are you incapable of going one night without embarrassing the Noble and Most Ancient House of Black?!"

Sirius did not respond to his mother's berating. "It's my birthday," he mumbled.

"Yes, it was the celebration of your seventh birthday! And you still do not seem to understand the behavior needed as a member of this House! You cause injury to your family members and refuse to use proper etiquette. Now that you are seven, and you still do not listen to me, I believe some more advanced methods are required."

"What have you done to deserve respect?"

"I think it is time you learn your lesson, perhaps the Cruciatus is required."

"Mother, I believe Sirius was attempting to rile you up with his pranks. No one was hurt, surely he doesn't need to be punished so harshly."

"It was not just this time, Artemis. He never learns and he does not show our guests the respect that is due to Purebloods! He must learn, and he has shown there is no other way of teaching him than through pain. You don't have to watch this, Artemis."

"On the contrary, I believe it is my responsibility as the future Head of this Noble and Most Ancient House. If you believe Sirius must be disciplined, allow me, mother."

"He is your brother, are you sure you could discipline him?" their mother asked, a proud smile developing on her face.

"Yes mother, if I can discipline my brother I will be prepared to discipline any member of the House in the future. If you doubt my abilities, you could watch to make sure my methods are firm enough."

"What a wonderful idea Artemis, I am sure you can handle this. Go on."

"Crucio," while casting she projected into his mind 'Pretend like this is the worst pain you can imagine.'

Sirius acted the part despite it feeling like a bad pinch.

"I didn't hurt you, did I? Are you okay?" Artemis asked as soon as their mother left, comforting as best as she could.

"No, it was like a pinch."

"I'm so sorry, Sirius."

"It's not your fault, Artemis."

"But I hurt you. I just tortured you! You are my brother, I am supposed to protect you," she was almost in tears.

"You did, I can guarantee that it would have been much worse if you hadn't stepped in."

August 1969

"Take care of Regulus while I'm gone. You know where I put the potions in case mother decides not to wait until I get back, don't you?"

"Of course I do, Artemis. And of course I'll take care of Reg."

"I love you, Sirius. I'll miss you."

"I love you too."

"Artemis, before you leave I have something to tell you. I have gotten permission for you to hunt in the Forbidden Forest each full moon. Like you do here, be careful."

"Could I take any of the arrows you made, the ones with the potion imbibed in them?"

"Yes, I have a set of petrification arrows for you. They last for about ten hours."

"Thank you, father."

"You deserve it, you're a responsible girl. I'm proud that you will be the next Head of our House."

"A pleasure to see you again, Malfoy," Artemis said with slight sarcasm once they had boarded the train.

"The pleasure is all mine, Black. I hope you don't have any delusions of controlling Slytherin."

"I am not the one with delusions regarding the house of Slytherin, Malfoy."

"Who are you alluding to, Black?"

"Apart from yourself? Your father."

"Which one?"

"Lord Malfoy."

"I demand satisfaction."

"And you wouldn't have if I was alluding to Atheel Malfoy né Shafiq?"

"You made a statement against my House and I demand satisfaction."

"I accept your challenge," Artemis vowed before the Greengrass sisters entered their compartment.

"Pandora and Alice Greengrass, lovely to see you again," Artemis told the sisters.

"Lovely seeing you, Artemis. It has been too long," Pandora, the older sister, responded.

"Pleasure to make your acquaintance, Lucius Malfoy," Pandora said, introducing him to her sister.

"Yes, a pleasure to meet you," Alice said.

"The pleasure is all mine," he told them.

"Wizard's duel or witch's?" Artemis asked once the sisters went to change.

"Wizard's," making it obvious he didn't know what a witch's duel was.

"Behind the portrait after the end-of-week feast."

"I think we should make this duel a bit more meaningful, some stakes."

"It is already for the honor of my House."

"I will take back my statement, revoke it magically. I have no ill will for any of our fathers."

"Alright, what stakes do you propose?"

"The winner may offer three individuals protection from the loser's House."

"No Mudbloods."

"No protection to an individual with only muggles as parents, I accept your terms."

Artemis won the duel.

December 1969

"Artemis, how has school been?" her mother asked her.

"It is going well, Mother. I am the top of my class."

"How is the house of Slytherin?" her father asked.

"Thriving of course."

"With you in charge, I would expect nothing less," their mother stated.

"Regulus, would you like to play chess?"

"Chess or Wizard's Chess?"

"What do you think? The one that would upset mother the most, of course," Artemis smiled and set up the chess game.

"I would ask if Sirius has been rubbing off on you, but I've had more experience with him these past few months than you have."

"Where do you think Sirius learned it from?"

"From you?" Regulus asked, disbelieving.

"I can just hide my acts of rebellion. Who wouldn't rebel with Walburga Irma Black as a mother, I'm surprised you haven't yet. I'm also relieved I don't have either of her names Walburga or Irma, Violetta is a much better middle name."

"She was our…?"

"The most recent was on father's side our fourth cousin and on Mother's, she's our great-grandmother."

"And Arcturus?" he asked, questioning if he should even be discussing the topic.

"He was our grandfather on father's side, he died a few years ago though. I think I was four, mother was pregnant with you so maybe three?"

"Sirius, can we talk?"

"Aren't we doing that already?"

Ignoring her brother, Artemis continued seriously, "I just want you to know that when you start Hogwarts, if you don't get sorted into Slytherin I'll support you as best as I can."

"If mother doesn't kill me first, you mean?"

"From mother too. I've been thinking about the type of person I want to be in leading this House, and I want to give each Black the ability to make their own decisions and be their own person."

"I'm sure you will, Artemis." "What are the teachers like?" Sirius asked after a short pause.

"Well, there is a dislike of Slytherins by many of the Gryffindors, but surprisingly Professor McGonagall is fair as long as she can see you trying in her class. Professor Sprout is nice as well. Professor Slughorn is a true Slytherin, he'll poach anyone he can see talent from. Professor Sinistra is also Slytherin, but she cunningly keeps that private. She's a good teacher though. Flitwick is pretty good. You'll hate Binns, you would rather go to the opera."

"You know my feelings on operas, Artemis."

"Yes, I do. Very well, even though I can't understand them."

"He's that boring?"

"He's a ghost."

"Wow, that boring."

"No, he's actually a ghost."

"I thought the only ghosts were the House ones."

"Plus Peeves and Binns."

"Peeves?"

"He's a poltergeist. A bit of a prankster brings chaos throughout the castle. I'm sure you'll like him,"

"Artemis, may I speak to you before you leave?" their mother interrupted their discussion.

"Of course, mother."

"You seemed a bit off when I mentioned your control over Slytherin. Awkward is not a good look on you, Artemis."

"I understand, mother. I merely thought I should do more to establish my reign"

"That's understandable, dear. Make sure you hold the reins before summer or someone else will take control. You are the Heir to the Ancient and Most Noble House of Black. I've already written Sirius off as a failure, I will not let you become one as well."

"Of course."

"Good girl, I will see you in the summer."

"Au revoir, ma mère," Artemis left her mother.

"Ah, Artemis. I was hoping you would accompany me on House Business on your last night here."

"I would love to, father."

Orion and Artemis went to Gringotts.

"The goblins just installed some new security measures."

As Orion was entering the vault, Artemis asked "Father, how do the security systems on our vaults work?"

"Well, we have a blood ward which only allows someone with a blood connection so many levels out from the Head of House."

"What happens if someone else tried to get in?"

"I doubt the goblins would let anyone get that far, but I suppose the failed blood wards would repel or harm the individual enough to make them leave."

"What are we doing today, father?" leaving talk of security behind.

"We are organizing some of the family jewels, then taking some galleons to give to the organizations I am a part of. Then, I thought we could see a play in Muggle London."

"First the jewels?"

"Yes, the jewels are first."

June 1970

"Kreacher is here to pick Mistress Artemis from the platform."

"Thank you, Kreacher."

"Kreacher does not ask for Mistress' praise."

"Of course you don't, but you deserve it. Thank you, Kreacher."

"Kreacher lives to serve the Noble and Most Ancient House of Black," Kreacher said, not accepting the appreciation.

"Welcome back Artemis. I don't believe the Cruciatus is proving to be a strong enough deterrent for your brother."

"What do you propose, mother?"

"Learn the curses in this journal. It was written by Licorus Black."

"I will learn them, mother."

August 1970

"Your cousin Bellatrix will be starting Hogwarts this year," their mother said to the table.

"Yes mother, I know what is expected of me," Artemis responded.

September 1970

"Thank you for mentoring me, Artemis. I greatly appreciate it."

"Of course, Bella. You are family, Blacks are always loyal to family."

"Et on est toujours pur." Bella recited the family's motto.

December 1970

"Artemis, would you teach me the Unforgivables?" Bella asked her.

"The Unforgivables? I've only cast one on a person before.

"You've cast one! Which one?"

"The Cruciatus. I'll tell you more next year. Why do you want to know, anyway?"

"Father told me to learn them."

"Well, surely that can wait another year."

"Of course, Artemis," she responded automatically, but her face softened slightly in what Artemis guessed was relief.

August 1971

"Sirius, you're starting up at Hogwarts, what are you thinking?"

"I think that it's pretty obvious what I'm thinking."

"I thought it would be easier to answer than what are you feeling."

"I'm not sure I can answer either."

"I understand, I'm here if you ever want to talk or just want someone there."

"Regulus, you can write either of us for anything, okay? I'll write you twice a week and make sure Sirius writes at least once a week."

"Impressive, making Sirius do extra work just for me," Regulus smirked.

"I would do anything for you, Regulus. But you are right, I'll try as much as I can on the Sirius front."

"I'm still here, you know. I'll write to you, Regulus," Sirius insisted.

"Sure you will. I await your letters. Have a good year, I'll see you at Winter Hols."

Artemis and Sirius went on the train together.

"I assume you're going off to find some way to make mischief, but first I need to remind you that no matter what house you are sorted into, you are my brother and I love you."

"I love you too, Artemis," Sirius said slightly rolling his eyes.

"Try to get caught as little as possible."

"Are you condoning my mischievous ways?" Sirius' eyes widened and a smirk grew on his face.

"I know how to pick my battles," she smiled.

September 1971

It was the full moon and as usual, Artemis was hunting in the Forbidden Forest. She heard sounds that she believed to be from either a wolf or a werewolf. As it approached her, she realized it was a small werewolf. Once they got about twenty meters from her, she aimed her bow and hit them with an arrow she knew would petrify.

"Hello, you probably don't know me, but I'm Artemis Black."

"Remus Lupin. You're right, I don't know you."

"Well, I shot you last night and wanted to make sure you were okay."

"How did you know it was me?" He asked, nervously.

"You're in the Hospital Wing, weren't admitted until sunrise, and I was looking. Not too difficult to put them together. So, how are you?"

"Your arrow didn't harm me."

"That's not what I'm asking. Are you okay? If you just need to talk, want to not talk. I figure I already know, so if you need to talk to somebody and you're scared to tell anyone, talk to me, or not. Your choice."

"You aren't going to hold this over me, are you?"

"That would be cruel, but I would appreciate it if you made an attempt to curb my brother's mischief. You are a first-year, aren't you? My brother, Sirius Black, he's in your year."

"You're Sirius' sister?"

"You don't have to act so shocked. Yes, I am."

"And you're okay with both his house and speaking with me?"

"I am proud of my brother regardless of his house, and why wouldn't I speak with you?"

"I'm a Half-Blood."

"I've never really understood the blood prejudice thing, just don't tell my mother. Is anyone else giving you a hard time for that?"

"It's been okay so far."

"Well, how about you and I meet up once a week to study and you can tell me if that changes?"

"I'd like that, thank you."

"Remus Lupin."

"Remus Lupin?" Malfoy questioned.

"Don't tell me you've forgotten about our duel, Malfoy, it was only a year ago. You need to protect three individuals of my choice, and I chose Remus Lupin."

"Isn't he a Gryffindor?" Malfoy sneered.

"Yes, a friend of my brother's. He may not believe in blood supremacy, but he is still my brother, my blood. And blood conquers all, does it not?"

"I see."

October 1971

"Hello, Remus! Did you bring someone to our study session?"

"I hope you don't mind. This is Lily, she's a first-year in Gryffindor."

"Hello Lily, my name is Artemis Black. I'm in my third year and Slytherin. Do you have a favorite subject yet?"

"I really enjoy Potions."

"I could talk about potion theory if you want, but we can't really brew any here. It's also not my best subject, I could find someone to brew with you if you want? Or get some hours in Slughorn's lab?"

"You could do that?"

"Sure, I'd be happy to."

"James and I are planning a prank, want to join?" Sirius asked Remus.

"Not right now, I'm going to the library."

"You can study anytime. Help us, Remus," James insisted.

"I'm actually part of a study group," Remus explained.

"Who else is in it?" James asked

"Anyone we know?" Sirius asked at the same time.

"Lily and Artemis."

"You're studying with Artemis?" Sirius asked.

"Who's Artemis?" James asked.

"My sister."

"You're studying with a Slytherin?"

"I am. And no offense Sirius, but she's way more accepting than I thought most of your family was."

"She's not like most of them. She, Reg, and Dromeda are the only ones I can stand."

"I should be going, don't want to be late. See you tonight."

"Sorry that I'm late," Remus told Artemis and Lily who were already talking.

"Is everything all right?" Artemis asked, hiding some of her concern.

"Nothing happened, James and Sirius just wanted to know where I was going."

"So has anyone said anything to either of you since I've seen you?"

"No," Remus responded.

Lily stayed quiet.

"Lily, did someone say something to you?" Remus asked.

"I was called a Mudblood," she said quietly.

"Who called you that?" Artemis asked after giving Lily a look of sympathy.

"Malfoy. It's okay, Sev was there... Are there other words like that?"

Remus shook his head, but Artemis responded, "there are."

"There are?" he asked.

"Could you teach me about them?" Lily asked.

"You want me to teach you about the slurs someone might use against you?" Artemis asked disbelieving, and not enjoying the idea.

"Not just that, all about the discrimination against Muggleborns."

"There really should be a class on Wizarding Culture and Customs," Remus complained.

"There should. I would love to, Lily. You said that someone was with you when Malfoy bullied you, who was that?"

"Oh, Sev? Severus Snape, he's in your house."

"Are you jealous?" Remus quipped.

"Of a first-year? Lily is my friend, someone helped her I want them to know that I appreciate that."

"Why would you be jealous over me?" Lily asked.

"I'll give you lessons on Wizarding Culture as a whole, are Mondays good?"

"I have Astronomy on some Mondays, Tuesday?"

"Tuesdays, it is."

"Artemis Black. If I'm not mistaken, you're Severus?"

"I am."

"I heard that you defended Lily from Malfoy."

"I did," more coldly this time.

"Would you do it again? I assume you know more about Wizarding society than she does."

"I will always defend her," he defended passionately.

"Always? Will you take a vow on it? Not an Unbreakable Vow, but on your honour. Your honour in relation to the House of Black."

"You want me to defend her?" he asked, confusion entering his voice but not his expression.

"I do, she's my friend. I can't exactly be open in protecting her, but I can help those who can."

"I would not have thought you would be a Blood Traitor."

"The second part of your Vow, you won't directly or indirectly allow anyone that does not already know of my beliefs or opinions on Blood Supremacy."

"And why would I agree to this vow?"

"Because I'm going to get you the support of two very powerful Houses."

The two made the vow, which was similar to an Unbreakable one, but the color and pattern were slightly different.

"Severus Snape," Artemis told Malfoy.

"The Half-Blood?" he sneered.

"He's in Slytherin, I'm sure you would agree there are worse Half-Bloods."

"No Half-Blood is a good Half-Blood."

"And you've offered your family's protection to two."

"And why haven't you used your third one yet? Your brother, perhaps."

"Anyone that goes after him will have to deal with me, all of the Purebloods know that."

"So, you're first lesson in Wizarding Culture! I thought I would start with some of the cultural expectations for Muggleborns."

"Alright! And again, I really appreciate this Artemis."

"Introductions. If you are giving someone your name, only give your first name. Muggleborns and Half-Bloods that don't have a Pureblood surname just give a first name."

"That's rubbish."

"It really is just a form of Blood supremacy. If I had to give a reason, we're basically raised to try to figure out how someone is related to us as soon as we are introduced. We've come up with a lot of ways to hint at things from your expression and introduction."

"There are others?"

"Yes, gender for example. If you wear trousers, it means you identify as a man. Or that you prefer he/him pronouns. If you wear a skirt or dress, you prefer she/her pronouns. If you wear gloves, you prefer they/them pronouns. If you wear tights or leggings under a skirt or dress, you are okay with she/her and they/them pronouns. If you wear a belt you are okay with he/him and they/them pronouns. And if none of those fit someone, you can wear a special bracelet that has your pronouns in it."

"Huh?"

"Surely Muggles have a way for people to show their gender identity?"

"Well, it's kind of obvious. Don't you think?"

"Not without what someone's wearing. How do you do it?"

"Just looking at people. If you're a girl, you're a girl. If you're a boy, you're a boy. I thought you were the one's stuck in the 19th century."

"It is true that we haven't had very many reforms this century, there's only really been one. It sounds like you make assumptions based on appearance as well, but on appearance that people can't choose. Or can muggles change the appearance of whatever you use to base one's gender from?"

"No, you're born with one. The two of us are girls and Remus, Sirius, and James are boys."

"Well, in the Wizarding world we use a different way of telling what someone's gender is. I could write it out if you need help remembering?" Artemis asked, trying to be as helpful as possible.

"I guess. I just don't understand how it's possible the way you do it, but I'll learn. Maybe I'll talk to my parents. How did the Wizarding world get like this?"

"Well, throughout our history, a member, usually the Head or Heir, of the most powerful Pureblood House of the time would make a rule in their family magic or be in some sort of relationship that hadn't previously been accepted. When this happened, the Pureblood Houses would teach their children that this was acceptable so they wouldn't offend the powerful House. It would take at most a generation for something to be seen as completely normal."

December 1971

"How have you been, Regulus? I've missed you so much."

"Fine, Artemis."

"Are you feeling alright?"

"I'm okay," the foundation of a smile there, but nothing else.

"Are you hurt?" She paused, "Did mother hurt you?"

Regulus didn't deny it.

"Have you been properly healed?" eyes full of concern.

"I'll be alright, with all this concern, you'd almost think you cared."

"Jokes aside, I do care for you, Regulus. I will not allow mother to hurt you."

"What are you going to do? She's our mother."

"She will not hurt you."

"Artemis, leave it! Don't do something stupid."

"I will protect you, little brother."

"I don't need protection, it seems that you do."

"Mother."

"Artemis, lovely to see you back, dear. I expect you are doing well in your classes?"

"Of course, straight Os and tied for the top spot in my class. I had something I wanted to speak to you about?"

"And what would this be?"

"More of a question I suppose, how has Regulus been doing?"

"That seems more of an accusation to me."

"Regulus is my blood, I will not let anyone hurt him. You have seen him far more often than I have recently. I wanted the opinion of my mother. Could you look out for him? I feel that he is hiding something from me in his letters. Do keep me updated?"

"Of course, Artemis."

"Even if they are a member of our House, tell me, and I will punish them. I have proved myself in that department, I think?"

"Yes, I do not doubt your ability to discipline, dear."

"And I would have the right, no the duty to discipline anyone in this House with the exception of father. That is correct, is it not, mother?"

"You are correct."

February 1972

"I just don't get why the Wizarding world hates Muggleborns so much."

"A lot of wizards and witches can't separate Muggles and Muggleborns. And, I mean, the Muggle world does have a lot of prejudice. And many Muggleborns don't go out of their way to understand and follow Wizarding customs. And while not all Purebloods get the Heir's education, being exposed to magic for your entire life helps."

"You've mentioned it a few times before, what is the Heir's education?"

"Heirs to Sacred Twenty-Eight Houses receive a special education from four to nine. Each House does it differently, but I can tell you how the Blacks do it. When we believe someone is an expert in their field, we have a portrait of them done. When they die, they replace or are added to the others in that field. The Heir goes into a large room attached to Black Manor and takes lessons from the portraits. It's not like we would have been able to duel world champions at that point, but when we did need another person to supervise or help my father was there. And we learned from world experts, so we also learned languages from a young age."

"How many languages do you speak?"

"As much as we say world experts, they end up being from Europe, at least in the House of Black. My Aunt Druella taught my cousins and me etiquette, but that was my only class in English. And it was in English. Until age ten, I think I sounded like some sort of pompous princess all the time. Sirius was quick to rectify that, but it still comes out when necessary. I learned a few subjects in each language. I learned Charms, the Principles of Magic, and Spell Creation in French; Dark Arts and House Magic in Russian; Ancient Runes and Arithmancy in Italian; Transfiguration and Magical Creatures in Romanian; and Potions in Polish."

"Wow, I barely started learning French and Spanish before I came to Hogwarts. How did you learn so much without being able to apply it?"

"Are you talking about the wand restriction outside of school? I think that only applies to those in the Muggle world, but I learned everything wandlessly."

"That's so impressive."

"Thanks. I missed Sirius and Regulus so much, and when I got back it was good that I was. And learning French and Spanish is impressive, that's one I didn't learn."

"Wait, do you not speak Spanish?"

"I don't, my mother felt scorned by the Iberian Peninsula, so I didn't learn Spanish or Portuguese. I think it has something to do with a trip she and my father took shortly after they were married. It was shortly after Grindelwald was defeated, and someone made a comment about her being a dark witch so they wouldn't give her their business."

"Your family is interesting."

"That I cannot deny," she began laughing and Lily joined in.

May 1972

"For our last Wizarding culture meeting of your first year at Hogwarts, I thought I would give you a little quiz on how to present yourself, and what it means in how others present themselves. Explain what you remember about introductions."

"We've gone over these a million times. I think if I ever forgot, a little Artemis would appear and berate me for an hour or until I remembered."

"I'm not that bad," Artemis insisted.

"No, you're not," Lily smiled.

"I'm beginning to think you're stalling," Artemis smirked. "Start with yourself."

"Because I'm a Muggleborn, I introduce myself as Lily. All Muggleborns and Half-Bloods that received the name of their non-Pureblood parent use only their first names. Half-Bloods that are given a Pureblood name may use it, but only when introducing themselves to a Muggleborn or if they have been identified as such by a Pureblood. Until a Pureblood is married, they give their first and last name. If they are speaking to someone higher than themselves in their family, they give their relation in addition to their name."

"Only in the House that corresponds to their last name or their parents' maiden names. Continue," with Artemis' response, Lily knew she was doing very well.

"When a Pureblood is married and takes the name of their hus-partner, they give their first name and married name. They can give their birth name, but only if it is Sacred Twenty-Eight. If your married name is not Sacred Twenty-Eight, but you are the Head of a Sacred Twenty-Eight House you may use either your birth name or your married and birth name. If you are the Head of a non-Sacred Twenty-Eight House and married into another non-Sacred Twenty-Eight House, you give both. And if you were married into a Sacred Twenty-Eight House, it's unlikely you could remain the Head of another House without merging them."

"While we're talking about names, tell me about the use of middle names."

"They are names of family members. Talking about them with someone means you trust them or value them very much."

Artemis asked a few more questions, all of which Lily was close enough for Artemis.

"For your first year, I think that's enough. I'm really proud of you, Lily."

"Thank you for your time, Artemis. In case I don't see you tomorrow, have a wonderful break."

August 1972

"Regulus, I trust that you will remember our lessons from this past year?" their mother asked.

"Of course mother, your faith is not misplaced."

September 1972

"What do you think you're doing!?" Regulus asked, confronting Artemis after catching her with Remus and Lily.

"I have a study group."

"You know that's not what I meant! What would you do if mother found out?"

"I have a few theories on what would happen. Would you like to hear them?"

"I'm serious, Artemis."

"No, that's our sibling."

"Artemis," he was losing his patience.

"I was referring to Sirius, but I am one of your siblings as well. Are you getting us confused?"

"You can't be in a study group with her."

"I won't abandon my friend."

"You acknowledge her as a friend? You need to fix that," Regulus ordered before leaving the Slytherin Common Room.

"Cissy wanted to join our training sessions, if you don't mind of course," Bellatrix asked on their first meeting of the year.

"Of course I wouldn't mind. I would have offered the next time I saw her. I thought she might be interested even though Dromeda wasn't. Would you tell her when our next meeting is?"

"Of course. What are we doing this time?"

"I suppose I did promise to teach you the Undeniable Curses this year."

"Stronger versions of the Unforgivables, I can't wait."

"That's not exactly what they are, but it will work as a definition for now."

November 1972

"Happy Birthday, Sirius! I'm sorry we don't talk more, but I promise that for the rest of the weekend I am at your disposal."

"You didn't have to do that, Artemis."

"You're my brother."

"And Regulus?"

"I tried, but he's off befriending Malfoy and Severus. But I'm sure the two of us can get into enough mischief to make up for it."

"You want to help me with mischief?" Sirius asked, unbelieving.

"I said I was at your disposal; did I assume incorrectly?"

"Well, James, Remus, and I were trying to make something. Do you think you could look at the charm-work on it?" he asked hopefully.

"Of course. What is it you're trying to do?"

"It's a map of Hogwarts, but it would tell you where people are. I'm sure you get the benefits of something like that."

"As well as the negatives, where is this map?"

"James' and my dorm."

"I can't exactly get there without anyone seeing me."

"I might have a way," Sirius smirked at her. "Follow me."

Sirius gave her the Cloak when she got to their dorm.

"So what did you want me to look at?" Artemis asked, surprising Remus and James.

"How did you get up here?" James asked.

"How long have you been there?" Remus asked at the same time.

"Not too long, I assume it was James' Cloak. Thank you, by the way."

"This looks pretty good, have you tried it yet?"

"We haven't come up with a way to stop and start the charms."

"You could use a passcode; you would have to use different ones to start and stop though."

"Oh, that makes sense. We made one, but didn't think to have different ones," Remus explained.

"I think it would be best if you weaved the second passcode charm into the first."

"What should we use as the passcode?" Remus asked James and Sirius.

"Mischief Managed," Sirius offered with a smirk.

"Like any of your mischief will ever be managed."

"I like it," James added, growing a smirk as well.

"What would you like to do for our second day of mischief?" Artemis asked.

"Are you sure you don't have anything else you need to be working on today?"

"I'm sure. I have all of my assignments done, I have study group meetings with Remus and Lily on Thursdays, I spoke to Lily about Wizarding culture on Tuesdays but I'm not sure if we're doing those this year, and I train Bella and Cissy once a month. Do you want to be alone? We can meet later today or even tomorrow."

"Really? Thanks, Artemis. Maybe we could have dinner together by the kitchens?"

"Sounds great, I'll see you at 7?"

"Spending the day with the Blood Traitor?"

"He's our brother, Regulus."

"Ah, yes. I forgot. You're a Blood Traitor too," he said cruelly.

"I'm sorry that we weren't there, that you were with mother alone. And I forgive you, for whatever you must do. I love you, brother. But you must understand as I do, that blood status doesn't matter."

"Doesn't it? Wars have been fought over it."

"Wars have been fought over less."

"It matters, even if it shouldn't. Our society values it, so it holds value in our society."

"Your circular reasoning is a bit circular in its reasoning. Good evening, brother."

"How was your day, Sirius?" Artemis asked once they were in a room across from the Hogwarts kitchens.

"James, Remus, and I used the Map today. Thanks again for helping us finish it."

"The three of you are very talented, and I'd be lying if I said it wasn't fun."

"Admitting that I'm talented, that must be difficult for you," Sirius joked.

"No, you're incredibly talented. And I'm not just saying that because it's your birthday. Though you have always been more of a transfiguration person than a charms master."

"Remus did most of it, James and I helped of course."

The night continued with conversations about schoolwork and Sirius' pranks and plans, but Artemis could tell that he was avoiding something.

"Could we talk?" Sirius asked, becoming shyer than she had ever seen him.

"I thought we were doing that already, but if you want to change the topic be my guest," she smiled at him.

"I'm bisexual."

"That's awesome, thank you for telling me. I'll always love you."

"I love you too, Artemis."

"Have you told anyone else?"

"James and Remus know."

"You came out with a joke, didn't you?"

"Maybi."

"I'm glad to see you both. I thought we could start off with a duel between the two of you, if that's alright with both of you," Artemis asked her cousins.

"That's alright with me, though I'm not so sure about my baby sister."

"Are you wearing flats, Bella!?" Cissy asked in outrage.

"I'm not the Head of House, nor am I the Heir. Why would I be wearing heels?"

"They are a sign of dignity."

"Would you like to take your heels off, Cissy?" Artemis asked.

"Anything Bella can do, I can do backwards and wearing high heels."

"So sure of yourself, little sister?"

"Maybe not the backwards part, but I am much more comfortable in heels than you are."

"I can beat you in heels," Bella insisted.

"Want to test that theory?" Cissy goaded before summoning a pair of heels.

Cissy won the duel once she used Bella's slight lack of balance to her advantage.

December 1972

"I still don't understand how you just get potions," Artemis complained.

"You're quite good at potions yourself," Lily argued.

"No, I can follow a recipe. You can understand how each and every component and action go with the others to have specific effects. I blame my professor growing up, she only knew Polish."

"Well, when I was growing up, Sev and I would brew some. I didn't know what I was doing, but it helped with the basics."

"You never cease to amaze me. I'm sorry that we have to meet in this abandoned classroom now."

"I don't mind, I'm sorry Remus couldn't make it tonight."

"Speaking of Remus, I have to go meet him. We're meeting tomorrow, right?"

"I don't think I can. I'll let you know when I can somehow."

"Alright."

"What do you want, Peter?" James asked.

"I thought I saw something on the edge of the forest earlier. Would you come with me to check it out? It could probably be used for one of your pranks."

"I like the sound of that. But just so you know, I can use anything in one of my pranks, I'm gifted that way."

"Little full of yourself, James? Why don't we check it out in the morning, so Remus can come with us?" Sirius asked.

"I guess, we'll meet you at the portrait of the Fat Lady an hour before sunrise, okay Peter?"

"I'll see you then."

"Did Remus come back last night?" Sirius asked.

"I can't find him."

"I guess we can go without him?"

"Artemis! What are you doing in the Forbidden Forest, during a full moon no less?"

"Relax, Sirius. I hunt in the forest every full moon."

"You kill animals in the forest, and don't get attacked?" James asked incredulously.

"Of course not, I use arrows that petrify and leave the animals each with plenty more food than they would have found that night without me."

"Is that a werewolf?" Peter asked.

Before anyone could answer, the body changed back into Remus, his body no longer petrified.

"Remus?" the boys questioned at the same time.

"He needs pain potions, you can speak with him alone before breakfast."

"You knew?" Sirius asked.

"It wasn't my secret to tell."

"How could you not tell us?" James asked Remus.

"I'm not quite sure. I was scared to tell anyone."

"But Artemis knows?" Sirius asked more confused than upset.

"She found out on her own."

"When?"

"The first moon, she was out there and found me in the hospital to make sure I was okay."

"Are you okay that she petrifies you?" Pettigrew asked.

"We've discussed it, it makes the transformations less painful actually. I don't get as sore from them."

"I'm sorry we made you feel like you had to hide this from us," Sirius apologized.

"If I'm being honest, I really wanted you two to know. Wanted you to find out somehow."

"You're not going to tell anyone, are you Peter?" James asked threateningly.

"Of course not, you are my friends."

"Peter, that sounds like something one of my housemates would say," Artemis said cooly, entering the room.

"Peter's not a Slytherin," James held his disdain at Artemis' house, but everyone could tell it was there.

"I was merely comparing his crypticness, no need to get defensive. I'm sure he wouldn't last a month in Slytherin before turning into someone's servant."

"You don't know Peter."

"You know, I should be heading to class now. Wanted to check on you first, Remus. How are you doing?"

"I'll be alright, Artemis."

"If you're sure."

"Black."

"Malfoy," Artemis' voice was laced with suspicion.

"What are you doing?" he returned with the same amount of suspicion.

"Studying."

"Well, you don't want to study in there," he pointed to the door she was planning on entering before being interrupted.

"Why not?" she asked, molding her features to look questioning and expectantly to him.

"That sickly Gryffindor you pledged my protection to is in there with a Mudblood. Unless you wanted to see the Mudblood? Perhaps that is why you acquired my protection over him?"

"Don't be ridiculous, Malfoy. I'm no Blood Traitor."

"Really? Come to think of it, I don't believe I have ever heard you say it."

"Say what?"

"Mudblood."

"Some of us don't require vulgarities to get our points across."

"Your brother does not seem to have the same issues, you know?"

"I did not know you were that close with Regulus."

"Yes, he and Severus have become quite good friends of mine. I almost think he is less of a Blood Traitor than you."

"Are you accusing me of something, Malfoy? I am more than up to the challenge; I assume you remember the last time we dueled."

"I do not intend to provoke your honour, but if I were you, I would watch my back," he promptly left and Artemis looked through a bookshelf before disillusioning herself and going into the study room.

"Sorry for taking so long, Malfoy caught me outside of the door."

"No problem, Artemis, it gave Lily and me a chance to talk. What were we going over today?" Remus asked.

"I planned on going over some Transfiguration, but we don't have enough time. We could talk unless you need help with something specific?"

"I don't," Lily answered.

"Me neither."